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Cardiovascular screening is the term we use for a variety of tests and scans designed to detect heart conditions and diseases before they become problematic. These tests are especially helpful for identifying patients who may be at higher risk of heart problems. Early detection using cardiovascular screening is crucial because it often means we can get the right treatment and lifestyle changes started sooner, which could significantly reduce the risk of serious long term heart issues.
We recommend cardiovascular screening to assess the health of your heart and blood vessels. The tests are designed to detect any early signs of heart conditions, such as coronary artery disease (CAD), high blood pressure, and other heart-related issues. By identifying these conditions early, we can recommend preventive measures or treatment plans to improve your heart health while potentially reducing the risk of heart attacks and other complications.
Cardiovascular screening involves a series of tests that evaluate different aspects of heart health. Your consultant may advise you to have one, or a combination of the following:
Blood pressure measurement
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease. Regularly measuring your blood pressure helps monitor and manage any risk.
Blood tests
Blood tests check for levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and other indicators of heart health.
Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
This quick, non-invasive test measures the electrical activity of your heart to detect abnormalities in heart rhythm.
Echocardiogram
By creating an ultrasound of the heart, our consultants can see your heart muscle and valves in action.
Stress test
This test involves monitoring your heart’s performance while you take part in light exercise, usually on a treadmill or stationary bike.
Coronary calcium scan
This imaging test detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries, which can indicate the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD).
The cost of cardiovascular screening depends on your individual circumstances. At the time of your appointment your consultant will discuss all options with you and ensure all your questions are answered.
Our fixed-price packages include the cost of your surgery and all appropriate aftercare appointments. However, any pre-surgery diagnostic tests and your consultant's outpatient appointment consultation fee are charged separately.
Our flexible payment options help you spread the cost of your payment across a time period that suits you.
Cardiovascular screening is recommended for anyone who has risk factors for heart disease, including :
Family history
If anyone in your family, past and present, has a history of heart disease, high blood pressure or other cardio issues.
Age
Risk of heart related health issues increases with age, especially for men over 45 and women over 55.
High blood pressure
Persistent high blood pressure increases the risk of heart damage and developing heart disease.
High cholesterol
Heart health is strongly linked with diet, and elevated cholesterol levels can lead to the build-up of fatty deposits or ‘plaques’ in your arteries.
Diabetes
Diabetes significantly raises the risk of heart problems in later life.
Smoking
Smoking is a major cause of heart disease and cardiovascular problems.
Obesity
The bigger you are, the harder your heart has to work. Excess weight can also lead to conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
The main benefit of cardiovascular screening is the chance of catching potential heart problems before they become severe. Early detection can help with the following:
Prevention
Setting up lifestyle changes and treatments that help prevent the progression of heart disease.
Improved management
Better management of any existing conditions, like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Informed decisions
Helping patients make informed decisions about their health and treatment options.
Peace of mind
Knowing the status of your heart health can reduce anxiety and encourage proactive health measures.
Cardiovascular screening usually happens after you’ve met with your consultant. They will review your medical history, discuss any symptoms you're experiencing, and figure out your risk factors. You may be advised to fast for a certain period before blood tests and avoid certain medications that could affect test results.
Depending on which cardiovascular screening tests your consultant recommends will determine what you’ll experience at the hospital. Here’s an overview of the most common tests:
Blood pressure measurement
A cuff is placed around your arm and inflated to measure the pressure in your arteries.
Blood tests
A small sample of blood is taken from a vein in your arm using a hypodermic needle.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
Electrodes are placed on your chest, arms, and legs to detect the heart's electrical activity.
Echocardiogram
A technician uses a device called a transducer to send sound waves into your chest and create images of your heart.
Stress test
You'll exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike while your heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG are monitored.
Coronary calcium scan
You lie on a table that slides into an X-ray machine called a Computed Tomography scanner (or CT for short) which takes detailed images of your heart.
After your cardiovascular screening, your consultant will review the results with you at a followup appointment. They will explain what the results mean and discuss any further steps you need to take. This may include changing your lifestyle, medications, or getting additional tests and treatments if necessary.
Cardiovascular screenings can help detect a variety of heart-related conditions, including:
Coronary artery disease (CAD)
The narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries due to fatty deposit build-up.
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Increased pressure in the arteries that can lead to heart problems.
Arrhythmias
Irregular heartbeats that can indicate underlying heart issues.
Heart valve disorders
Problems with the valves that control the blood flow through the heart.
Heart failure
A condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
The narrowing of the arteries in your arms or legs, which can indicate wider heart health issues.
To prepare for a cardiovascular screening, you should follow any fasting instructions given to you by your consultant. For example, if you’re having blood tests, you might need to fast for 8-12 hours beforehand. Also avoid caffeine and tobacco, as these can directly affect the test results. You may also need to stop certain medications in the lead up to your screening (again, your consultant will let you know beforehand).
Comfy clothing is advised for stress tests and any scans involving lying down. Try to relax and stay calm, as anxiety can affect your blood pressure and heart rate too.
As most cardiovascular screening tests are non-invasive and relatively straightforward, they are safe for anyone to undergo. We generally recommend them for adults, especially those with risk factors for heart disease. Anyone concerned about their heart health should speak with one of our consultants about whether screening is appropriate for them or other family members.
Most cardiovascular screening tests are non-invasive and require little to no recovery time. After the tests, you can go home and resume your normal activities immediately. If you underwent a stress test or any procedure that involved physical exertion, you might need to rest briefly afterward.
Your consultant will take you through the results of your screening tests at a followup appointment, including:
Blood pressure
Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg. Higher readings could indicate hypertension.
Cholesterol levels
Your consultant will explain your LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and total cholesterol levels.
ECG results
Normal ECG results show a consistent heart rhythm and rate. Abnormal results may require further investigation.
Echocardiogram findings
This test creates images of your heart's structure and function, which your consultant can discuss in detail with you.
Stress test outcomes
These results show how well your heart responds to physical stress and if there are any signs of CAD.
Whatever your results, your consultant will use them to develop a personalised plan to improve or maintain your heart health, which may include lifestyle changes, medications, or further tests.
- Johns Hopkins, Cardiovascular diagnostic and screening tests
- Cardiac Screening, Understand your heart health
